The bench press, in its infinite glory is not the best exercise to show true strength. The dead lift, the physical act of pulling up as much weight as one can from the ground seems like a more fitting champion. Or what about the Olympic lifts, the movements that are competed on by athletes across the world on the greatest stage? Could even the dip be a more true testament of upper body strength than the bench press? Regardless of any of this, the bench press still holds a lure in our culture, and will for the foreseeable future be the only number that matures to recreational weight lifters. So how can you maximize your effort in the gym to make sure that your bench press numbers keep rising? Here are four simple steps that will surely help you add more weight to the bar.

Storage benches in the small home are a boon when it comes to keeping the area neat and clutter stashed away from the eye. Nothing can make a home look smaller than items piled in every room. Adding small indoor benches to nearly every part of your home will make the entire area seem larger. Small benches can be added to children's rooms for a place where toys and games can be kept. Entryway benches can hold boots, shoes, and umbrellas. Bedroom benches are a great place to store extra bedding and pillows. Out of season clothing will store nicely in a bench that is lined with cedar. Sizes can be based on the amount of room that can be spared. There really isn't any place where small benches can't be placed and put to good use. They can be ordered to accommodate specific storage plans, such as drawers and doors. Some will have no back if they are going to be permanently installed and the wall behind the bench will act as the back. Others will be completely closed in and can be moved around the home as you see fit.

Of course the price also matters. If a bench is too cheap compared to others in the same class then you can be sure it isn't that good. The low price may be due to hidden defects or just low quality materials.